Things to know before you go - Discovery Cove

Park Hours

Our opening times today are 7:15am – 5:30pm.
Attractions open at 9:00am. Breakfast and check in begin from 7:15am.

Driving

Discovery Cove is on Central Florida Parkway, at the intersection of Interstate 4 and FL 528. Discovery Cove is approximately 10 minutes south of downtown Orlando and 15 minutes from Orlando International Airport.

Address:

6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, Florida 32821

Driving Directions:

From the North (Downtown Orlando, Universal Studios, Sanford, Deland):

Take I-4 West to exit 72 (Beachline Expressway/FL-528/Airport)

Once on the Beachline, take the first exit (International Drive)

Make a left onto International Drive

Make a right onto Central Florida Parkway at the third traffic light

The entrance to Discovery Cove is on the left-hand side of Central Florida Parkway

From the West (Lake Buena Vista/Tampa):

Take I-4 East (toward Orlando) to exit 71. This is the SeaWorld exit

Bear right onto Central Florida Parkway when exiting ramp

The entrance to Discovery Cove is on the right hand side of Central Florida Parkway, past the sign for SeaWorld Orlando

From the East (Cocoa, Cape Canaveral, Titusville Area):

Take FL-528 (Beachline Expressway) west to the International Drive exit

Make a left onto International Drive

Make a right onto Central Florida Parkway at the third traffic light

The entrance to Discovery Cove is on the left hand side of Central Florida Parkway

Parking:

Spaces are available for cars, motorcycles and recreational vehicles. Parking is complimentary at Discovery Cove.

Food & Drink

Enjoy your all-inclusive day at Discovery Cove

Laguna Grill

A delicious breakfast and a buffet lunch are included with your Discovery Cove Package, plus as many snacks and drinks as you want throughout the day. Over 21s can also enjoy a range of alcoholic beverages. Breakfast is served from 7:15am until 10:30am and lunch from 11:00am.

FAQs

General Questions

If you’ve purchased the 3-Park Ticket or the Discovery Cove Ultimate Package then you will receive free parking at SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch Gardens for the entire 14 day duration of your ticket.

The free parking offer is not available on the 2-Park Ticket or the standard Discovery Cove Package.

How do I redeem my free parking?

You just need to enter the park as usual. Free parking will be activated on first use. Once you’ve shown your tickets and ID at the parking booth, your ticket will be scanned by the booth attendant, if you have the 3-Park Ticket or the Discovery Cove Ultimate Package, then you will proceed to the parking area without charge.

Do I need ID at the park gate?

We do carry out random spot checks at the park entrance for security reasons. If you are over 18, then you may be required to present photo ID at the park gate. We accept passports or driving licenses only. Minors (under the age of 18) do not need to present a photo ID to enter the park.

Will my bag be checked when entering the park?

All bags, backpacks and packages are subject to inspection prior to entering the parks. The following items are not permitted for the safety of our animals and our guests: weapons, knives, any other type of sharp objects, straws, large hard or soft coolers and any hazardous items or materials.

Do you accept the UK disabled badge for parking?

We do accept the UK badges for guests with disabilities. Please make sure you show the badge to our parking team members (in the kiosk upon arrival) in order to be directed to the correct area to park. These spaces are taken on a first come first served basis, so we suggest that you arrive early to be parked as close as possible to the entrance.

Discovery Cove

How many people are allowed into the park each day?

Around 1,300 pre-booked guests are admitted per day.

How far in advance do I need to book?

At least 3 months in advance, especially during the school holidays, although late availability does crop up from time-to-time, so it’s always worth checking.

Yes, customers need to be at least 6 years of age to swim with the dolphins. Guests aged between 3 and 5 can still enjoy all the other activities at Discovery Cove with the non-dolphin swim package. Guests must be at least 10 years of age to take park in SeaVenture.

Can children over 6 swim with a dolphin without adults?

There is no adult to child ratio but one adult (over 18) must accompany children under 13 years old in their party.

What time is my Dolphin Swim or SeaVenture experience?

Times are allocated on the day you arrive at Discovery Cove. The reception at Discovery Cove opens from 7:15am for check-in and breakfast. The park activities all begin from 9:00am. Times are allocated on a first come, first served basis so we recommend you get there early.

I can’t swim, can I still take part in the dolphin swim experience?

Much of the dolphin interaction occurs in waist-high water, allowing for those who aren’t confident in the water to take part. Guests are given the option of swimming with their dolphin in either deep or shallow water, allowing both swimmers and non-swimmers to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Grab a life jacket before entering Dolphin Lagoon, this will help you float during your swim.

How long is the dolphin swim experience?

The in-water dolphin interaction and swim is 30 minutes. Beforehand, there is a 10 minute orientation session led by Discovery Cove's expert dolphin trainers to discuss safety and offer an opportunity for participants to ask questions.

After the orientation session, you will wade into the shallow water of the Dolphin Lagoon for the in-water experience with the dolphins. At the end, one at a time, guests will experience a personal "dorsal tow" back to shore. Guests can then view photographs and a video of their interactions and talk about their experience with trainers and other participants.

Can I swim if pregnant?

We do not place restrictions for expectant mothers; the decision is left up to each individual. However, guests should take the following into consideration: the day will involve swimming with water depths ranging from 3 feet to 15 feet. In addition, if you have chosen to participate in the Dolphin Interaction, it will be with a live animal weighing in excess of 500 pounds. The interaction will involve up-close activities such as kissing and petting of the dolphin, and being towed 12 feet through the water while holding onto the dorsal fin of the dolphin. Therefore, we do ask that you consult a doctor prior to your visit. Please ensure that you explain the nature of the interaction and activities to receive a proper assessment.

What should I wear to Discovery Cove?

Guests should bring their own swimsuits, and, if they choose, water socks or rubber pool shoes, hat, sunglasses and cover-up or dry clothes.

With the exception of watches and wedding bands, Discovery Cove guests may not wear jewellery, for the safety of the animals.

Can I bring my own camera?

Guests may use their personal cameras and recording devices throughout the park, with the exception of Dolphin Lagoon (for the safety of our animals and your photo equipment). We do, however, allow other party members to take photos and record video of the interaction from our beach areas. In addition, we provide photographers and videographers to capture your memories. Photography and video packages vary in selection and pricing.

Are prescription masks available?

Discovery Cove offers special prescription masks in various strengths on a first come, first serve basis.

Will Discovery Cove have the right sized wetsuit for me?

Yes! We stock a large range of sizes from toddlers through to 18 XL. Guests can pick whether they prefer a long or short wetsuit.

What is there to do for non-swimmers at Discovery Cove?

Discovery Cove has plenty to offer for non-swimmers. Not only can you relax on the white sand beaches or one of our many hammocks, but we have an aviary full of exotic birds to hand feed. More importantly, however, we do provide life jackets so you can enjoy the waterways as well. The devices are designed to keep you afloat, so you would still be able to snorkel with the fish in The Grand Reef or take a journey down our Wind-Away River. The lifejackets can even be worn in the dolphin lagoons!

Can I bring my own food and drink into the park?

Discovery Cove is all-inclusive! All your food, drinks and snacks are provided. Large hard or soft coolers, glass containers, food, drinks and picnic lunches may not be taken into the park. Guests with special diets, baby formula or baby food may bring their items into the park.

How does Discovery Cove cater for dietary needs?

If you have a dietary requirement, it is not a problem for us as we cater for all dietary needs. Please speak to the chef on arrival at the park.

Can I wear my contact lenses?

Yes, contact lenses can be worn in the water with the dolphins, however you are not permitted to wear glasses. We do offer a prescription goggle service at our concierge desk that is free of charge.

What if my booking is cancelled due to bad weather?

If your booking is cancelled by us due to poor weather we always try and fulfil your reservation during your holiday where possible. Subject to availability. You are entitled to make 1 date change free of charge before your booked Discovery Cove date if your plans do change. Again this is subject to availability. If you have to change or cancel your reservation, please contact the Discovery Cove reservations centre on 001 (407) 370-1280

How accessible is Discovery Cove to guests with disabilities?

Discovery Cove can accommodate guests with disabilities who are able to manoeuvre themselves with limited assistance (or with the aid of a personal assistant) during their dolphin experience and in the various wading locations. Discovery Cove also offers specially-designed outdoor wheelchairs with oversized tires for easy manoeuvring on the beach. The wheelchairs are not self-manoeuvrable and guests will need assistance operating them. Wheelchairs can be reserved by calling 001-877-557-7404.

Is there anything guests need to do before they arrive?

An Authorisation to Treat Form will need to be completed by the parent or legal guardian of any minor (under 18 years of age) who is visiting Discovery Cove without them. If the minor is also participating in the Dolphin Swim or SeaVenture experience, then their parent or legal guardian will also need to sign separate waivers (one for each activity) prior to the child’s visit.